As much as I love to live in the city, I love getting out of it more. There’s something about living downtown that leaves me hurting for either a peaceful, reception-free weekend in cottage country or an excessive and debaucherous weekend in a city with more everything. But always, I’m excited to come home and know that Toronto is juuust right.

I’ve rounded up some ideal weekender bags (seen on my friend Jamie, who’s design savvy but says “kayaking or canoeing in Algonquin Park” is his favourite getaway — he’s Sporty and Posh Spice in one). I love the functionality of rolling suitcases, but I find them inconvenient as soon as I leave the airport, especially since I usually opt for public transit. Throw these weekenders over your shoulder and you won’t have to worry about uneven sidewalks or a lack of elevators and escalators. Besides, a carried bag looks much sexier than something toted around on wheels. 

*all photos were taken by Miss May Truong

CITY TREK

This one goes out to all the over-packers: this Filson weekender is perfect for hopping from city to city. Beautifully designed, it will turn heads with its zipper and leather detailing, and the zipper goes all the way around, making it easier to pack every single wardrobe option you bring (and buy).

$430, available at Oliver Spencer










































VERSATILE

This Rudsak bag isn’t as large as the others, but it could easily hold a well-edited weekend wardrobe and a toiletry bag. It’s a great everyday bag, too, and since it’s made of genuine leather it will only look better with age.

$375, available at Rudsak










































POP OF COLOUR

Easy to find at baggage claim, nothing is more classic than a Mountain Equipment Co-op bag. Low-maintenance, very well-priced and durable, it has style for life and can take you from campsite to cruise line.

$30 (with membership), available in-store and online at mec.ca.